Los Angeles, February 4, 2021 – February is Responsible Pet Owners Month and for pet owners, or soon-to-be pet owners we want to make sure you know about pet laws. In addition to giving them love and attention, pets rely on us to feed and care for them, and keep them safe. Part of keeping our furry friends safe is by following City and State pet laws that were created to protect you, your pet, and your community.

By following the below pet laws under the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code (“LAMC”) you can be responsible, protect your pet, and avoid possible fines.

License your dog (LAMC 53.28)

Dogs are required to be licensed after the age of four months. To obtain a license, dog owners must show proof of spay/neuter and rabies vaccination. The cost for an annual license is $20 per year/per dog. There are a few exemptions for dogs that are not spayed or neutered, but the fees jump from $20 to $100 and can rise to $335 with a breeding permit.

You can license your pet online at anionlinelicense.lacity.org. To get an intact dog license, you can go to your nearest City shelter and provide proof of the exemption and microchip information. To learn more about the exemptions, visit laanimalservices.com.

Prevent unwanted litters – Spay or Neuter your pet (LAMC 53.15.2)

Dogs and cats are required to be spayed or neutered after the age of four months, with some exemptions allowed. Free and low-cost spay and neuter vouchers are available and may be downloaded at laspayneuter.com.

Not only can you prevent unwanted litters, you are also preventing serious and sometimes fatal medical conditions such as pyometra, a serious infection in female dogs or testicular cancer in male dogs.

Obey the Leash Law (LAMC 53.06.2)

Dogs must be on leash unless they are in your fenced yard or at a dog park that allows off leash exercise.

Do not tether your dog (LAMC 53.70D)

Tying up your dog to any stationary object for more than three hours in a 24 hour period or denying them proper food, water, and shelter for long periods of time is against the law and can be harmful to your furry friend’s life.

Scoop your dog’s poop (LAMC 53.49)

Dog owners are required to clean up after their dogs when taking them out in public. Don’t forget the poop bags when you leave your house for a walk.

View the pet laws in the City of LA by clicking on our downloadable flyer, which you can also print out and share!

PDF of Pet Laws (English and Spanish)

For more information about LA Animal Services, please visit: laanimalservices.com.